Tile positioning device

ABSTRACT

A tile positioning device for height adjusting a tile located on a roof hip or ridge joint, each tile having upper and lower faces. The device comprises two opposing longitudinal spaced apart side members arranged for straddling a roof hip or ridge joint, means for maintaining the longitudinal side members in a substantially parallel configuration, and at least one tile-pressing element mounted between the longitudinal side members. The or each tile-pressing element being arranged to act upon the upper face of a tile located between the longitudinal side members, so as to height position the tile relative to the device.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a device for and method of height adjusting atile located on a roof hip or ridge joint.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

Hips and ridges are formed where two inclined faces of a roof meet. Thehip or ridge requires a uniquely shaped tile, which is typically ofv-shaped cross-section. Hip and ridge tiles are typically the last tiles(roofing elements) to be laid on a roof, following the laying ofstandard roof tiles (roofing elements) along the inclined faces of theroof.

When working on a roof, a roofer may rely on a roof ladder as a means ofsupport. Standard roof ladders are of little use when working on a hipas the ladder rungs prevent the ladder from straddling the hip or theridge. This lead to the development of hip or ridge ladders which arewell known in the art and need not be described further herein. Oneembodiment is shown for example in UK Patent Application No. GB2305208.

Roofers have typically relied upon visual inspection to ensure hip tilesare laid in alignment along the hip of a roof. Typically a rooferworking on the roof would align consecutive tiles with the assistance ofa colleague on the ground, the ground based worker having the advantageof a better perspective.

The inefficiency in terms of manpower and time has led to thedevelopment of tile alignment aids. Typically, such aids comprise a pairof side guide members held parallel to one another by a plurality ofbridging members. In use, the side guide members straddle the hip of theroof thereby defining a tile placement area between the guide members.Tiles are laid between the guide members and the device subsequentlyremoved. The resultant line of tiles is in alignment with one anotheralong the line of the hip.

UK patent application number GB2281092 describes a ridge tile guidecomprising a pair of mutually parallel guide rails linked by one or morebridging connectors shaped to arch over a line of ridge tiles or hiptiles, which are positioned between the guide rails, in use, thebridging connector being adjustable to adjust the width separationbetween the opposing guide rails to suit the required tile width.

UK patent application number GB2336389 describes a device for fixing hipor ridge tiles on a roof, wherein two battens are rigidly secured to oneanother by means of U-shaped brackets to lie parallel and spaced by adistance equal to the width of the angled hip or ridge tiles. Thebattens are placed so as to straddle the hip or ridge, and the tiles arecemented thereto, whilst the battens act both as alignment guides andtemporary shutters for the cement. The spacing between the battens isadjustable by sliding the L-section members relative to each other, andsecuring them with a clamping nut.

Safety is of utmost importance when carrying out work at height onroofs. A drawback of the tile alignment arrangements describedhereinbefore is that they tend to be unstable and therefore pose a riskof injury to the roofer. It is therefore an object of the invention toprovide a tile alignment or positioning device having improved safetyfeatures for the user.

A further problem with the known devices is that while they providemeans for aligning the tiles relative to the line of the hip, they offerno solution to the problem of ensuring that each consecutive tile islevel with the next. When laying hip tiles, an adhesive, typically amortar mix, is first applied to the underlying roof surface along thehip. Typically, each tile is subsequently laid onto the mortar along thehip in end-to-end abutment.

Whether relying on unaided methods or using an alignment device of thetype described herein before, the roofer typically beds the tile intothe mortar by applying pressure to the tile by hand. The roofertypically will rely on visual inspection to ensure the resultant line oftiles is level relative to the hip and to each other. This may alsorequire assistance from a colleague on the ground.

It is therefore a further aim of the invention to provide atile-positioning device that enables a level line of tiles to be laidwithout third party assistance.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, there is provided, according to a first aspect of theinvention, a tile positioning device for height adjusting a tile locatedon a roof hip or ridge joint, each tile having upper and lower faces,the device comprising:

-   -   two opposing longitudinal spaced apart side members arranged for        straddling a roof hip or ridge joint,    -   means for maintaining the longitudinal side members in a        substantially parallel configuration, and    -   at least one tile-pressing element mounted between the        longitudinal side members,    -   the or each tile-pressing element being arranged to act upon the        upper face of a tile located between the longitudinal side        members, so as to height position the tile relative to the        device.

Preferably, the two opposing longitudinal side members are sufficientlyspaced apart to accommodate a tile there between. In use this typicallymeans that the device can straddle a hip or ridge joint.

An advantage of the device is that the longitudinal side members act asguides to ensure each tile of a line of tiles are laid in a straightline. The tile-pressing element ensures that each tile of the line oftiles is positioned at the same height relative to the device, the roofjoint and each other. As far as the present inventors are aware no otherdevice or method can achieve all of these desirable aspects simply andefficiently.

Preferably, the at least one tile-pressing element has a degree offreedom along an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of thelongitudinal side members. The tile-pressing element may be adjustableto allow for adjustment in pressing of tiles, for example those ofdifferent dimensions (e.g. taller or shorter) and/or to different heightrequirements (e.g. seated lower on (closer to) or seated higher on(further away from) a ridge or hip joint)

Preferably, the at least one tile-pressing element has a degree offreedom along the longitudinal axis of the side members. This allows foradjustment of the tile-pressing element along the device as required,for example to act on a given tile at a desired position.

These are two main movements of the tile-pressing element. Preferably,the at least one tile-pressing element can be positioned for use using acombination of these movements. Any combination of movements may be usedto effect a resultant displacement of the tile towards the roof joint.

Additionally or alternatively, the tile-pressing element is mounted to acarrier or actuating portion which has a first end which is pivotablymounted on the device, and a second free end, so as to allow thetile-pressing element to be moved from an operative position (which ingeneral will be a tile contacting position) to an inoperative positionwhere the free end of the carrier is pivoted away from the device (forexample no longer projecting above the space between the side members).This provides a very simple arrangement where the tile-pressing elementcan be pivoted away from the operative position, for example to allowmortar and/or a ridge tile to be placed between the side members withoutobstruction from the tile-pressing element, and then the tile-pressingelement can be easily pivoted back (for example over the mortar/tile)into the operative position to press the ridge or hip tile to a desiredextent. In this way the device can effect a desired displacement of thetile to an aligned position. To this end, it is desirable that the axisof pivoting is substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the sidemembers.

Preferably, the at least one tile-pressing element is slidablelongitudinally along the length of the device. This allows for pressingon the tile at any desired position(s) along its length. Generally ithas been found that with the device of the present invention onepressing action may be adequate to achieve the desired positioning.

Desirably, the at least one tile-pressing element comprises an actuatingportion and a tile engaging portion.

The tile-engaging portion may be an integral part of the tile-pressingelement, such as a face or an edge thereof. For example in oneembodiment of the tile-pressing element, the tile-engaging portion maybe the base of the tile-pressing element. Alternatively thetile-engaging portion may be an independent part of the tile-pressingelement. For example the tile-engaging portion may comprise atile-pressing element which is mounted on a carrier and which isadjustable relative to the carrier. For example the tile-pressingelement may be height adjustable on the carrier.

According to a second embodiment of tile-pressing element, thetile-engaging portion comprises a pair of pads for engagement with theupper face of a tile having an apex, (the tile generally will haveopposing converging sides which meet at an apex) wherein each pad ispositioned to engage the upper face of the tile at either side of theapex. Preferably, the pads are pivotable relative to upper face of thetile. This improves the coupling (contact) between the pad and the tile.

Preferably, the actuating portion of the tile-pressing element comprisesa handle. The handle may be spring-loaded. In this embodiment the handleforms a carrier for the tile-pressing element, as described above.

Desirably, the means for maintaining the longitudinal side members in asubstantially parallel configuration is adjustable so as to allow thespacing between the longitudinal side members to be varied.

In one construction, at least one connector links the longitudinal sidemembers. Each connector is desirably of variable length so as to enablethe spacing between the longitudinal side members to be varied inaccordance with the width of tile to be laid.

The two respective opposing ends of the longitudinal side members may belinked by a pair of connectors. In a first embodiment of the invention,each connector is telescopic.

In a second embodiment of the invention, each connector is a rod, havingone end fixed to one side member and a second end receivable into thesecond side member.

Preferably, locking means are provided to lock the device at a desiredwidth.

Preferably securing means are provided for securing the position of thedevice relative to a tile. Preferably the securing means compromises asafety line attachable to a roof ridge.

Preferably, the device further comprises at least one handle forcarrying the device.

Preferably, the device further comprises support means for supporting auser of the device. Preferably, the support means are hand and/or footholds.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the hand and/or footholdsare displaceable between an in-use position and a stowed position.Preferably, in an in-use position the foot holds extent outwardly fromthe side members. Desirably, in a stowed position, the footholds areupright relative to the device. The footholds may be biased towardstheir stowed position using a system of springs.

Desirably, the device further comprises one or more tile protectionmembers. Each tile protection member may be absorbent. Each tileprotection member may suitably be formed on a tile-abutting surface ofthe longitudinal side members. Alternatively, each protection member maybe a separate member adapted to fit between a tile and a longitudinalside member. Desirably, each tile protection member runs at least 75% ofthe length of a tile. Preferably, each tile protection member runs alongthe whole length of the tile. A suitable material for the tileprotection member may be wood.

A further aspect of the present invention relates to a kit comprising atile-positioning device according to the present invention and asecuring element having a base with at least one fixing member extendingtherefrom for affixing to a roof member; a retaining member on the base,the retaining member forming an anchor point to which a securing linecan be attached. Desirably the retaining member has a retaining eye towhich a securing line can be fastened. The kit may additionally comprisea securing line for securing the tile positioning device to the securingelement. The securing member itself may be considered a further aspectof the present invention.

In one arrangement the securing element is constructed ofinterconnecting components and comprising:

-   -   a first component which is a securing element having a base with        at least one fixing member extending therefrom for affixing to a        roof member    -   a second component which is connectable to the first component        to form the retaining member. Having interconnecting parts means        that one part (the first component) may be left in its secured        position after it has been used and the second component removed        for re-use. It is thus possible for example to tile over the        first component (for example by burying it in mortar or the        like) or to leave it exposed for future use (for example for        roof maintenance). In this way the safety of operating the tile        positioning device of the invention is improved.

The first and second components may be reciprocally screw-threaded sothat they can be interengaged by screw-threading. In one arrangement thefirst component has an upstanding member which is adapted to projectabove the roof, when in use. In particular it is desirable that theupstanding member and the second component together project proud of theheight level of any tiles to be laid by the device. In particular it isdesirable that the second component can be removed after any tiles arelaid. In this respect the second component may comprise an eye to whicha securing line can be fastened.

For increased safety it is desirable that the securing element has atleast two fixing members extending therefrom in different directions,each for affixing to a roof member. In particular it is desirable thatthe securing element has at least three fixing member extendingtherefrom in different directions, each for affixing to a roof member.This is particularly useful for example where a roof frame is erectedwith a transverse ridge roof beam and two hip roof beams which convergetoward the ridge roof beam, a securing device having the three securingelements can be arranged each to be affixed to one of the ridge beam orhip beams. In this way the securing device can be used to secure thedevice of the invention when in use to lay tiles along the ridge, oralong either of the hips of the roof. This provides a simple yet highlyefficient way of securing the tile-positioning device of the invention.It also provides for maximum efficiency as on most roofs one or twosecuring devices will be sufficient to tile the roof in safety.

The fixing members may be adjustable relative to each other so as to besecurable to roof members at different relative orientations to eachother. The fixing members are desirably sufficiently flexible to allowthem to adjust to the profile of the roof members to which they are tobe affixed. For example they may be in the form of metal straps whichcan be bent into a desired shape.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, there is provideda method of height adjusting a tile located on a roof hip or ridgejoint, each tile having upper and lower faces, comprising the steps of:

applying an amount of workable bonding material to the hip or ridgejoint, and

using the device of any preceding claim to bed each tile into thebonding material so as to height position each tile relative to thedevice.

Preferably, the method further comprises the step of positioning thedevice so as to straddle the hip or ridge joint prior to (i) applyingthe bonding material to the joint, and/or (ii) placing the tile on theroof.

In addition to the steps described above the method may comprise thestep of affixing a securing element of the type described above to atleast one roof member, and providing a securing line between thesecuring element and the tile positioning device to secure the tilepositioning device to the securing element. This then provides a safeway of operating the tile positioning device.

In accordance with a yet further aspect of the invention, there isprovided a tile positioning device for positioning a tile on a roof hipor ridge joint, the device comprising:

two opposing longitudinal spaced apart side members arranged forstraddling a roof hip or ridge joint,

means for maintaining the longitudinal side members in a substantiallyparallel configuration, and

at least two foot holds extending outwardly from the device.

It will be appreciated that the footholds enable the user to stand on orover the device. The undesirable necessity of standing directly on theroof has therefore been removed. It will be appreciated that thefootholds may be further used as handholds to support the upper body ofthe user.

As previously described with reference to the first embodiment ofdevice, the footholds are preferably displaceable between an in-useposition and a stowed position.

Various embodiments of the invention will now be described having regardto the following drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is perspective view is of a tile positioning device according toa first aspect of the invention;

FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of a portion of the device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a plan view of the device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is side view of the device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is an end view of the device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the tile-pressing element and carrier ofthe device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a side view of the tile-pressing element and carrier of FIG.6;

FIG. 8 is a plan view of the tile-pressing element and carrier of FIG.6;

FIG. 9 is a diagrammatic representation of the device of FIG. 1 in useon the hip of a roof;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the device and hip of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a device according to a second aspectof the invention;

FIG. 12 is plan view of a device of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is side view of the device of FIG. 11;

FIG. 14 is an end view of the device of FIG. 11;

FIG. 15 is an expanded perspective view of the device of FIG. 11;

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 11 in positionon a hip in a non-tile-engaging disposition;

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 11 in positionon a hip in a tile-engaging disposition;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view (from above) of tile positioning device,which is very similar in construction to that shown in the previousFigures;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view (from below) of the tile positioningdevice of FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 is an enlarged perspective view (from above) of the circledportion “C” of the tile positioning device of FIG. 18;

FIG. 21 is an enlarged perspective view (from below) of the circledportion “A” of the tile positioning device of FIG. 19;

FIG. 22 is an enlarged perspective view of a foothold (or rung) on thetile positioning device of FIG. 18;

FIG. 23 is an enlarged perspective view of a tile-pressing element on acarrier/handle which is present in the tile positioning device of FIG.18;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a securing element suitable for usewith a tile positioning device of the present invention;

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 24 affixed to roofmembers with a tie line attached thereto.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1 to 23 show various embodiments of a tile positioning device (andparts thereof) for height adjusting a tile located on a roof hip orridge joint, in accordance with the present invention. FIGS. 23-24 showa securing element for use with the tile positioning device.

Each embodiment of the tile positioning device comprises two opposingspaced apart longitudinal side portions or members 2,102,202 arrangedfor straddling a roof hip or joint. The side members are maintained in aparallel configuration by at least one cross-connector 4, 104, 204interposed between the longitudinal side members 2, 102, 202. At leastone tile-pressing element or tile-levelling portion 6, 106, 206 ismountable between the side members 2, 102, 202.

In use, the tile-pressing element 6, 106, 206 is arranged to act uponthe upper face of a tile positioned between the longitudinal sidemembers 2, 102, 202 so as to height position the tile relative to thedevice.

FIGS. 1 to 8 show a device 1 according to a first embodiment of theinvention.

As shown in FIGS. 1 to 5, the device 1 comprises a pair of opposinglongitudinal side members 2 of L-shaped cross section. Each side member2 comprises an upright or vertical portion 3 and a horizontal portion 5.The side members 2 are formed from metal, such as steel. The upright 3and horizontal 5 portions of each L-shaped side member 2 may be formedby bending a flat elongate sheet of metal about its longitudinal centralaxis. Alternatively, two elongate flat sheets may be welded togetheralong their longitudinal edge to form the L-shaped members 2.

Attached to the upper face of each horizontal portion 5 are three posts7 a, 7 b, and 7 c. The posts are positioned one 7 a, 7 c at either endof each side members 2, with a third post 7 b at a point midway alongeach side members length. The posts 7 a, 7 b, 7 c are used to support aguide rail 12 a short distance above the upper face of each horizontalportion of the side members. The guide rail 12 extends the length ofeach side member 2 linking the three posts 7 a, 7 b, and 7 c.

The first 2 a and second 2 b side members are held parallel to oneanother by a pair of cross-connectors 4. Each cross connector 4 is a rodwhich links the end posts 7 a, 7 c of the first side member 2 a to theend posts 7 a, 7 c of the second side member 2 b. A first end 4 a ofeach rod 4 is secured within the end posts 7 a, 7 c of the first sidemember 2 a. The end posts 7 a, 7 c of the second side member 2 b areprovided with a central channel or bore 9 through which the far end 4 bof each rod 4 passes. The rod 4 passes freely through the post 7 a, 7 cso that the spacing between the parallel side members 2 may be varied. Aclamp 13 is provided on each end post 7 a, 7 c of the second side member2 b. The clamp 13 comprises a locking pin 15 that extends into the post7 at right angles to the bore. The locking pin 15 acts upon the rodwithin the bore to restrict its movement through the bore. A lever 17 onthe outside of the post 7 activates the advancement of the locking pin15. By locking the post 7 at a desired position along the connector rod4, the parallel side members 2 are held a desired distance apart.

It will be appreciated that in alternative embodiments of device, thedistance between the parallel side members 2 may be fixed, for use withtiles of a set width.

As shown in FIGS. 1 to 5, two tile-pressing elements 6 are provided, oneeither side of the central posts 7 b. Each tile-pressing element 6 ismounted on a rectangular carrier 18. Each carrier 18 is adapted to slidealong the guide rails 12.

FIGS. 6 to 8 show one tile-pressing element 6 and carrier 18 of FIGS.1-5, in greater detail. One end of the carrier 18 is provided with acylindrical bore 19 through which the guide rail 12 of the second sidemember 2 b freely passes. The other end of the carrier 18 is providedwith a horizontal slit 20 which extends inside the carrier for about athird of its length, as shown in FIG. 7. The slit 20 is dimensioned toreceive the guide rail 12 of the first side member 2 a, as shown inFIG. 1. As the separation between the parallel side members 2 a, 2 b isincreased, the guide rail 12 of the first side member 2 a moves towardsthe opening of the slit 20, and vice-versa.

Each tile-pressing element 6 has an actuating portion and atile-engaging portion, wherein the tile-engaging portion is heightadjustable relative to the carrier 18. Each tile-pressing element 6 is asubstantially rectangular plate.

The plate 6 has a central vertical slit 21. The plate 6 is received intoa recess 22 a formed within the side face 23 of the carrier 18, so thatits outer face 6 a is flush with the side face of the carrier 18. A pinor bolt 24 extends from the recess 22 a within the carrier 18 and passesthrough the slit 21 in the plate 6. Locking means in the form of alevered nut 25 are attached to the end of the bolt 24. In an open(unlocked) position, the nut 25 is loose and the plate 6 is free toslide along its vertical axis relative to the carrier 18 within therecess 22. In a locked position, the nut 25 is tightened against theplate 6 and movement of the plate 6 relative to the carrier 18 isrestricted.

The tile-engaging portion of the tile-pressing element is the base 8 ofthe plate 6. In use, the base 8 engages the upper surface of a tilepositioned between the side members 2 of the device.

In use, the side members 2 of the device define an area between theminto which a tile is to be laid. As seen best in FIGS. 1 and 2, theopposing faces 11 of the upright portions 3 of the side members comprisea tile protection member. In the present embodiment, the tile protectionmember is a wood laminate, however it will be appreciated that anymaterial such as a plastics material may be used. The wood laminateassists in preventing damage to the tile by the metal side members 2. Awooden laminate has the added function of assisting in the drying orsetting of a workable bonding material which may be used to affix thetiles to the roof.

In use, the device 1 straddles the hip or ridge of a roof. The loweredge 10 of each upright portion 3 of the side members 2 rests on theroof's surface on either side of the hip/ridge joint.

It will be appreciated that, in use, the guide rails 12 of the devicemay also be used as a temporary tile-rest onto which each tile may berested prior to it being laid.

Before use on a roof, the width of the device may be adjusted inaccordance with the size of tile to be laid. A sample tile is first laidon a horizontal surface (typically the ground). The device is then laidover the tile so that the underside 10 of the side portions 2 rests onthe ground either side of the tile. The clamp 13 on the end posts 7 a, 7c of the second side member 2 b is unlocked so that the distance betweenthe opposing side members 2 a, 2 b is adjustable. The device is adjusteduntil the opposing upright faces 11 of the side members 2 a, 2 b engagewith the outer edges of the tile. The clamp is then activated to lockthe device 1 at its set width. The device 1 may then be raised onto theroof ready for use.

The device 1 of the present invention acts primarily as a tile alignmentand levelling, or positioning, device 1. However a number of safetyfeatures are incorporated into the device 1. It will be appreciated thatthe user of the device 1 needs to be able to safely work with the device1 whilst maintaining a safe position on the roof. The device of FIGS.1-5 is designed to act not only as a tile-positioning device but also asa roof ladder to support the user.

As shown in FIGS. 1-3, the device 1 is provided with support means(footholds/hand holds) in the form of outwardly extending brackets 22,which extend from each longitudinal side member 2. The brackets 22 arebolted to the underside of the horizontal portion 5 of each side member2. It will be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the brackets22 may be welded to the side members, or alternative connection meansmay be provided. The brackets 22 act as footholds for the user in amanner similar to the rungs of a ladder. By positioning his feet onthese brackets 22, the user may straddle the device 1. Alternatively auser may work from one side of the device with his/her weight supportedby the brackets 22. In the device 1 of FIGS. 1 to 6, four sets ofbrackets 22 are provided although it will be appreciated that any numberof brackets or alternate support means may be provided in accordancewith the present invention.

In alternative embodiments of the device (see in particular FIG. 22below), the brackets or rungs may be spring-loaded, wherein the user'sfoot is used to displace the rungs from an upright stowed position to ahorizontal in-use position. When the foot is removed from the rung, therung returns under the spring to its upright rest position. The rungsonly extend outwardly from the device during use and therefore make thedevice more streamlined when not in use.

If the device 1 is to support not just its own weight but also theadditional weight of the user, means must be provided to secure safelythe device 1 to the roof. Such means are described below with referenceto FIGS. 22-23.

At least one end of the device 1 is provided with two rope connectionpoints 24 in the form of hoops or eyes, which have been screwed into theend posts 7 a, 7 c. A rope or safety line may be secured to the hoops.

FIG. 9 shows the device 1 in position on a hip 30 of a roof ready foruse. A rope 31 connects the rope connection points 24 on the device 1with an anchor point 26 located at the ridge of the roof. The sameanchor point 26 may further to used to secure the user directly to theroof via a harness arrangement (not shown). Ideally, the anchoringarrangement further enables the user to “abseil” up or down the hip 30of the roof when using the device 1 to lay hip tiles.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the arrangement of FIG. 9. Thedevice 1 straddles a hip 30 on to which a row of hip tiles is to belaid. A method of use of the device of FIGS. 1 to 8 will now bedescribed, with reference to FIG. 10 and FIG. 3.

A layer of workable bonding material, typically mortar, is first appliedto the hip 30 within the tile-receiving region 31 defined between theside members 2 of the device.

A first tile 28 is laid on the mortar (not shown) between the parallelside members 2 of the device. With the plate 6 of the tile-pressingelement locked in its upmost position (as shown in FIG. 10), the carrier18 is slid along the guide rails 12 until positioned over the tile. Theplate 6 is then unlocked and lowered a predefined amount. The loweringof the plate 6 beds the tile a predetermined depth into the underlyingmortar. The depth is maintained for each tile to ensure a resultantlevel line of tiles. When the first tile had been laid and bedded intothe mortar, the device 1 is ready to receive a second tile. If required,additional mortar may be applied to the hip at this stage. The secondtile is placed between the parallel side portions 2 of the device 1,with one edge of the tile in abutment with one edge of the previouslylaid tile. The carrier 18 is then slid along the guide rail untilrepositioned over the second tile. The plate 18 is used in the matterdescribed previously to bed the tile into the mortar. The setting of thearrangement ensures that the second tile is laid at the same level asthe first tile.

The above steps are repeated until the entire line of tiles has beenlaid.

In an alternative method, the plate may be locked at a desired heightprior to the laying of a tile. For example, this may be carried out onthe ground at the same time as the device width adjustments are carriedout. If the pre-locking has been carried out and the mortar laid asabove, a line of two or more tiles may be laid on the mortar between theparallel side members 2 of the device. With the plate 6 of thetile-pressing element locked in pre-set position, the carrier 18 is slidalong the guide rails 12 above the line of tiles. As the carrier slides,the lower edge of the plate engages with the upper surfaces of the tilesto bed each tile a predetermined depth into the underlying mortar. Asthe height of the plate relative to the device is fixed, the beddingdepth is maintained for each tile to ensure a resultant level line oftiles.

It will be appreciated when using either method that when the laid tilesreach the midpoint of the device, the first tile-pressing element 6 abecomes redundant and the second tile pressing element 6 b is used onthe remaining tiles to be laid between the middle post 7 b and the farend post 7 c. When a line of tiles the length of the device has beenlaid, the device may be moved up or down the hip of the roof ready to beused to lay the next line of tiles.

Typically however, hip files are laid from the bottom of the roof to thetop along each hip. It will be appreciated that the above method is notexclusive to the positioning of hip tiles and may be used also toposition ridge tiles along the ridge of a roof.

After a line of tiles has been laid it may be necessary for the rooferto return to the tiles to tidy up and to remove any excess mortar fromthe area. This is easiest when the mortar has dried. The wooden laminateon the opposing faces of the side members 2 has a drying effect on themortar as the wood absorbs moisture from the mortar. The wooden laminatetherefore speeds up the drying time of the mortar, thereby speeding upthe overall tile laying process.

FIGS. 11 to 17 show a device 101 according to a second embodiment of theinvention. This embodiment differs from the first in that the sideportions 102 are formed from lengths of metal box-section weldedtogether into a rectangular frame having two parallel elongate members114 connected by two end members 116 and one central support member 118.The central support member 118 imparts strength and rigidity to theframe. The frame is preferably steel, although it will be appreciatedthat alternative materials such as wood or plastic may be employed inthe construction of the frame.

The tile-pressing element 106 is slidable longitudinally along thelength of the device 101 within guide rails 112 provided on the uppersurface of each side portion 102.

The connectors 104 are variable in length, thereby enabling the spacingbetween the parallel side portions 102 to be varied.

Handles 120 are provided on each end cross member 116 of the frame toimprove the portability of the device 101.

As best seen in FIG. 14, the longitudinally moveable tile-pressingelement 106 comprises a bridge portion 140 having outwardly extendingarms 142. The arms 142 are dimensioned to slide within the guide rails112. The bridge portion 140 is provided with a pair of vertical bores orpassages or guide holes 144 through which pass a pair of verticallyaligned rods 146. The rods 146 are linked at their upper ends 45 by ahandle portion 148. The handle portion 148 is moveable verticallyrelative to the bridge portion 140 as the rods 146 are free to passthrough the guide holes 144 in the bridge portion 140. The free ends 147of the rods 146 distal to the handle 148 are provided with tile engagingpads 149. The pads 149 are pivotally mounted at the free ends 147 of therods 146 and secured by means of pins 143 or similar fastening means.

As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, the pivotable nature of the pads 149ensures a coupling of at least one surface of the each pad 149 againstthe inclined upper surface of a tile 28 positioned below it.

A movement of the handle 148 towards the bridge 140 effects a movementof the pads 149 away from the bridge 140, thereby allowing the user toapply pressure through the pads 149 to the tile 128, effectively beddingthe tile 128 into the mortar 134 laid beneath it.

As shown in FIG. 16, the bridge 140 is further provided with a thirdhole 150 or bore located equidistant between the two guide holes 144,through which a control pin 151 is free to pass. The upper end of thecontrol pin 151 is secured to the underside 141 of the handle portion148. The control pin 151 is provided with a moveable nut 152. Bypositioning the nut along the length of the pin 151 between the handle148 and the bridge 140 it is possible to limit the displacement of thetile 128 by the tile-pressing element 106.

It will be appreciated that in alternative embodiments the handle may bespring-loaded.

FIGS. 11 and 15 show the cross-connectors 104 in greatest detail. Eachconnecting member comprises a first portion 104 a and a second portion104 b. Each portion 104 a, 104 b is provided with a series of verticallyaligned holes 104 c. The second portion 104 b is dimensioned totelescope into the first portion 104 a. A securing pin 104 d is providedwhich is dimensioned to pass through the holes 104 c in the respectiveportions 104 a, 104 b thereby fixing the total length of the connectingmember in accordance with the width of tile to be laid.

Outwardly extending brackets or footholds extend from each longitudinalside member 102.

A hoop 124 is provided for attachment of the device to a roofline. Thehoop is positioned on a cross connector at one end of the device.

It will further be appreciated that the side portions of the device 101may take other forms. A limitation of the structure of the device 101 isthat the connecting members 116, 118 must be sufficiently raised abovethe underside of the side portion 102 resting on the roof, so as toprovide sufficient clearance for the hip. It is therefore preferred thatthe device 101 maintains a substantially U-shaped cross-section.

The length of the device may be variable, for example the device may betelescopic. The device may be used as a singular device or a series ofdevices may be interconnectable to increase the resultant length of thedevice.

FIGS. 18-21 show a tile positioning device 202 according to the presentinvention which is very similar in construction to that shown inprevious Figures—particularly FIGS. 1 to—10.

The device 201 has opposing side members 202 which are of L-shaped crosssection similar in construction to those in the earlier Figures. Thedevice has three pairs of opposing posts 207 a; 207 b and 207 c. Oneform each pair of posts support the respective guide rails 212.

Apart from the generally cylindrical shape of the posts there someadditional distinctions from earlier embodiments which are best seenfrom FIGS. 20 and 21. FIG. 20 shows an enlarged view of the post 207 aof the device 201 which is encircled by circle “C” in FIG. 18. As can beseen the post 207 a has fitted thereto an eye 224 to which a securingline may be attached. An eye 224 is provided on each post 207 a so thateach side of the device 201 can be secured easily to a securing line.

FIG. 21 shows the an enlarged view of post 207 c. It can be seen that(in common with earlier embodiments) one post 207 a and one post 207 c(on the same side of the device) are each fitted with a clamp 213 (whichoperate in same manner as clamps 13) to allow adjustment of the spacebetween the side members 202.

A further aspect of the device shown in FIGS. 18-20 that differs fromearlier embodiments is that the rungs/brackets/footholds 222 are biasedaway from a roof engaging position to a non-roof engaging position. Inparticular as best seen from FIG. 22 each rung 222 is attached to thedevice by opposing mounting members 230 which each house an aperture formounting a pivot pin 231, which runs through a first end 232 of the rung222. The first end 232 is proximate the side rails 212 in the embodimentshown. The rung 222 has a second free (non-attached) end 233. A mountingbracket 234 is mounted to the mounting members 230 by fasteners 234,while fasteners 236 can be used to mount the entire assembly to thedevice. The bracket 234 forms a retainer for one end of a tension spring237, while an aperture 238 in a top wall of the rung 222 allows theother end of the spring 237 to be fixed to a pin 239 mountedtransversely between the side walls of the rung 222. A contact pad 240is mounted on the free end of the rung 222 on the phase thereof and actsto protect a roof from direct contact with the (free end of the) rung222.

The assembly is adapted so that the rung 222 is biased away from anormal roof-contacting position. As shown in FIGS. 18 and 19 inparticular the rest position for each rung 222 is a raised position awayfrom the roof contacting position. An advantage of providing this restposition is that when the device is being moved (for example by sliding)along the roof the rungs 222 (and in particular the contact pad 240) donot catch on any exposed outer lips of any of the roofing elements suchas roof tiles or indeed and other raised surface thereon. The skilledperson will appreciate that overlaid roofing elements can catch on anarticle which is slid into place up along the roof.

When weight of a user (such as a foot or hand) is placed on the rung 22it moves (against the bias of the spring 237) in the direction of arrowD in FIG. 22 (and in use downwardly) until the contact pad 240 rests onthe roof. The weight of the user is thus transmitted by one or morerungs to the roof and/or the remainder of the device. When the weight isremoved the rung 222 moves upwardly again under the bias from the spring237. In this non-operative position it is easier to move the device uponthe roof. Generally the rung will move through an angle of about 45degrees or less between the operative and inoperative positions.

If desired (and as described above) the rungs 222 could be arranged tomove to a stowed position where the free ends are moved into a positioncloser (in a transverse direction of the device) to the side members.Such position may be suitable for stowing the rungs 222.

FIG. 23 shows the tile-pressing element in the form of an adjustableplate 206 of the device of FIGS. 18 and 19 which is similar to thearrangement shown in FIG. 6. The tile engaging element 206 and a carrierin the form of a handle 218 form a tile-engaging assembly. The plate 206is mounted between guides in the form of pins 250. A clamp arrangement251 allows for height adjustment of the element 206 relative to thehandle 218. The handle 218 has a first (free) gripping end 261 and asecond (pivoting) end 260. The pivoting end 260 is free to pivot about arail 212 (see FIG. 8 or 19) which is received within apertures 262 inthe handle. In this way the handle is free to pivot about one rail 212as indicated by arrow E. The handle is arranged to abut the other siderail 212. In this way the handle 218 can be pivoted about rail 212 sothat it no longer obstructs in any substantial fashion a tile or bondingmaterial such as mortar being placed between the side rails 202. Once atile is in place the handle can be moved to the position shown in FIG.18 so as to cause the tile pressing element 206 to act on the tile in apre-selected manner. A knob 265 on the handle 218 provides a grippingmeans for sliding of the handle 219 along the side rail 212.

FIG. 24 shows a securing element 300 having a base 301 three fixingmembers in the form of metal straps 302-304 extending therefrom. Thestraps are for affixing the element 300 to a roof member. A retainingmember in the form of an upstanding member 305 which forms a receiverfor an anchor bolt 306 is provided. The retaining member and inparticular a retaining eye or hoop 307 form an anchor point to which asecuring line can be attached. Reciprocal screwthreads on the upstandingmember 305 and the bolt 306 allow for interconnection of the two partsof the securing member.

The securing member is provided with apertures 309 which allow thesecuring element to be fastened to a roof such as with a nail 310. Asecuring element 350 may be integrally formed with the securing memberso as to protrude from the base 301 to allow the base 301 to be securedto the roof, 320. The securing element 350 may be a spike. In analternative embodiment the base 301, and metal straps 302-304 may housepreformed securing elements such as spikes which may be located on thebase 301 and metal straps 302-304 instead of the aperture 309.

As can be seen from FIG. 25 the securing element can be secured to aroof 320 such as the timbers of the roof. In particular as illustratedthe device is fixed to a main roof beam 321, and inclined beams 322 and333 by being nailed in position using the fixing straps 302-304.

A securing line 330 is used to secure a tile positioning device of theinvention to the securing element 300. A catch or hitch 331 is employedto fasten the line to the eye 307. The base 301 may be left in itssecured position after it has been used and the bolt 306 removed forre-use. It is thus possible to tile over the base 301. In use theupstanding member 305 is adapted to project above the roof, when in useand it and the bolt 306 together project above the level of any tiles tobe laid by the device. The tie line 330 can be attached to any of theembodiments of positioning device by the various attachment pointsdescribed above. In this way the securing device can be used to securethe device of the invention when in use to lay tiles along the ridge, oralong either of the hips of the roof. The fixing members may beadjustable relative to each other so as to be securable to roof membersat different relative orientations to each other. The fixing members aredesirably sufficiently flexible to allow them to adjust to the profileof the roof members to which they are to be affixed. For example theymay be in the form of metal straps which can be bent into a desiredshape.

The words “comprises/comprising” and the words “having/including” whenused herein with reference to the present invention are used to specifythe presence of stated features, integers, steps or components but doesnot preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features,integers, steps, components or groups thereof.

It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, forclarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also beprovided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, variousfeatures of the invention which are, for brevity, described in thecontext of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or inany suitable sub-combination.

1. A tile positioning device for height adjusting a tile located on aroof hip or ridge joint, each tile having upper and lower faces, thedevice comprising: two opposing longitudinal spaced apart side membersarranged for straddling a roof hip or ridge joint, means for maintainingthe longitudinal side members in a substantially parallel configuration,and at least one tile-pressing element mounted between the longitudinalside members, the or each tile-pressing element being arranged to actupon the upper face of a tile located between the longitudinal sidemembers, so as to height position the tile relative to the device. 2.The device of claim 1, wherein the at least one tile-pressing elementhas a degree of freedom along an axis perpendicular to the longitudinalaxis of the longitudinal side members.
 3. The device of claim 1, whereinthe at least one tile-pressing element has a degree of freedom along thelongitudinal axis of the side members.
 4. The device of claim 1 whereinthe at least one tile-pressing element is mounted to a carrier which hasa first end which is pivotably mounted on the device, and a second freeend, so as to allow the tile-pressing element to be moved from anoperative position to an inoperative position where the free end of thecarrier is pivoted away from the device.
 5. The device of claim 4wherein the tile pressing element is adjustable relative to the carrier.6. (canceled)
 7. The device of claim 1, wherein the at least onetile-pressing element comprises an actuating portion and a tile engagingportion.
 8. The device of claim 1, wherein the tile engaging portioncomprises a pair of pads, for engagement with the upper face of a tile,the tile having an apex, wherein each pad is positioned to engage theupper face of the tile at either side of the apex.
 9. (canceled) 10.(canceled)
 11. (canceled)
 12. The device of claim 1, wherein the meansfor maintaining the longitudinal side members in a substantiallyparallel configuration is adjustable so as to allow the spacing betweenthe longitudinal side members to be varied.
 13. The device of claim 1further comprising securing means for securing the position of thedevice relative to a tile.
 14. The device of claim 13, wherein thesecuring means comprises a safety line attachable to a roof ridge. 15.The device of claim 1 further comprising support means for supporting auser of the device.
 16. The device of claim 15, wherein the supportmeans are hand and/or foot holds.
 17. The device of claim 16, whereinthe hand and/or foot holds are displaceable between an in use positionand a stored position.
 18. The device of claim 17 wherein the handand/or foot holds are biased away from an operative roof-engagingposition toward an inoperative non-roof-engaging position.
 19. Thedevice of claim 18 wherein the hand and/or footholds have a first endattached to the device and a second free end and further comprising acontact pad mounted on the free end of the or each hand and/or footholdand arranged to abut the roof in the roof engaging position.
 20. Thedevice of claim 16 wherein the hand and/or footholds move from aninoperative position to the operative position when user weight isplaced thereon.
 21. (canceled)
 22. (canceled)
 23. (canceled)
 24. Amethod of height adjusting a tile located on a roof hip or ridge joint,each tile having upper and lower faces, comprising the steps of: (i)applying an amount of workable bonding material to the hip or ridgejoint; (ii) straddling the roof or hip or ridge joint with a tilepositioning device having two opposing spaced apart side members; (iii)maintaining said side members in a substantially parallel configurationby at least one cross connecting member; and (iv) providing atile-pressing element arranged to act upon the upper face of a tilelocated between the side members, so as to height position the tilerelative to the device.
 25. (canceled)
 26. A tile positioning device forpositioning a tile on a roof hip or ridge joint, the device comprising:two opposing longitudinal spaced apart side members arranged forstraddling a roof hip or ridge joint, means for maintaining thelongitudinal side members in a substantially parallel configuration, andat least two foot and/or hand holds extending outwardly from the device.27. The device of claim 26, wherein the foot and/or hand holds aredisplaceable between an in-use position and a stowed position.
 28. Atile-positioning device according to claim 1 further comprising asecuring element having a base with at least one fixing member extendingtherefrom for affixing to a roof member; a retaining member on the base,the retaining member forming an anchor point to which a securing linecan be attached.
 29. The tile-positioning device of claim 28 furthercomprising a securing line for securing the tile positioning device tothe securing element.
 30. The tile-positioning device of claim 28wherein the securing element is constructed of interconnectingcomponents and comprises: a first component which is a securing elementhaving a base with at least one fixing member extending therefrom foraffixing to a roof member a second component which is connectable to thefirst component to form the retaining member.
 31. (canceled) 32.(canceled)